How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do cot sale before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their baby to wake up bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.